Ever since my daughter returned home from camp, she refuses to wear anything that isn’t Woodland blue or tie-dyed. All she talks about is the fun she had at camp, stories about her cabin mates, and how many days there are until camp next summer. She claims that she hears a bell ringing periodically throughout the day. She won’t stop singing camp songs or looking at the online photos on the Woodland website. She even makes her bed every morning and asks if she can “hop” during dinner. She insists that I ask you for Susan’s lasagna recipe and is now putting ketchup on potato chips. Help! Can you please explain to me what is going on with my daughter?

A Concerned Parent

Dear Woodland Parent,

Thanks for your letter; I can assure you that what your daughter is experiencing right now sounds like a typical case of “campsickness”. Not to worry…YOU ARE NOT ALONE! I receive calls and emails from parents every year at this time wondering what is happening to their camper(s). Trust me, campsickness is not necessarily a bad thing; it just means that your daughter(s) had an AMAZING summer, and they are sad to leave their camp friends. It is normal to miss the nonstop activity and fun that camp offers at every turn. Coming home to an empty room can be a bit of a shock after the excitement of constant interaction with a community of girls.

I have every confidence that she will adjust to being at home again; it just takes a little time. You can let her know that we will be corresponding with her (and you!) over the course of the winter via mail, email, and various social media. There are all kinds of ways she can stay connected to our camp family, and before you know it, we will be headed to Woodland for another fantastic summer!